Strike Averted At Johns Hopkins Hospital

Members of a union that represents thousands of maintenance workers, housekeepers and others at Johns Hopkins Hospital have agreed not to strike as planned after a request from the governor.

Gov. Martin O'Malley said in a statement Thursday afternoon that the union had agreed to his request for a one-week cooling off period.

"Today I urged 1199 SEIU and the Johns Hopkins Hospital management to take a one week cooling off period. 1199 SEIU has agreed not to strike at this time -- I appreciate both sides' willingness to continue negotiating in good faith."

Members of 1199 SEIU had planned a four-day strike starting Friday as negotiations with the hospital over wages stalled.

Hospital spokeswoman Kim Hoppe said Hopkins is hopeful that an agreement can be reached. She sent WBAL Radio the following statement:

"The governor reached out to both parties and asked that there be a cooling off period of one week. We are hopeful that both parties will be back at the bargaining table soon and an agreement can be reached."

The union, which represents some 2,000 employees, went on a three-day walkout in April.